Tottenham fans react on Twitter after Savage pans Alderweireld

Tottenham fans have reacted with anger on Twitter after Robbie Savage claimed centre-back Toby Alderweireld was not yet a world class defender.

The BT sport pundit has claimed Alderweireld is still not at the level needed to describe him as one of the best centre-backs despite becoming one of the Premier League’s best defenders.

“I like Toby Alderweireld at Tottenham – he is probably the most influential member of an excellent defensive unit, but is he world-class? He didn’t look quite up to that standard for Belgium in the Euros,” Savage said in a Q&A for the Mirror.

“Of the Premier League’s current crop, John Stones has the biggest potential to graduate to world-class stature.”

The 27 year-old has made 59 appearances since joining White Hart Lane in 2015 and is regarded as one of the best defenders in the Premier League.

His partnership alongside compatriot Jan Vertonghen at centre-back has made Spurs one of the best defensive units in the league and they currently have the best record, conceding just six goals in their opening 11 games.

Tottenham remain unbeaten in the Premier League but have struggled without Alderweireld and have not picked up a victory in seven games.

He is expected to take part in full training following the international break after picking up a knee injury during the 1-1 draw against West Brom in October.

The Evening Standard claim Alderweireld will be monitored ahead of the clash against West Ham and he could feature.

Here is a selection of the messages on Twitter:

Stones shimmying out of defence, to lose the ball on the halfway line, doesn't amount to world class @RobbieSavage8! Alderweireld however…